In his letter to the governor Wednesday, Fugate wrote that "the damage from this event was not of such severity and magnitude as to be beyond the capabilities of the state and affected local governments."

Then-Tropical Storm Isaac threatened Florida in late August and shortened the Republican National Convention in Tampa from four to three days, but it veered west and made landfall in Louisiana.

The appeal expands Florida's request from seven to 10 counties, including Palm Beach. It also increases estimated damage, mostly from flooding, to public property from $26.8 million to $36.7 million. FEMA has not explained why it denied the request although the estimate met a $25 million minimum.

Florida is seeking aid only for damage to public facilities and not for individuals.

Palm Beach County had an estimated $6 million worth of damages. In Martin County, the damages are estimated to be $3.5 million.

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